Build with the dirt you're standing on
See how many blocks you need and what they'll cost. Free, in 2 minutes.
Plan my build → or browse machinesFrom dirt to walls in four steps
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Do I have the right soil?
Probably. About 70% of the world's soil makes good blocks. You need some clay and no organic topsoil, so dig at least 12" down.
- Pure-earth blocks: 20–35% clay
- Cement-stabilized blocks: 15–25% clay, with more sand
How are earth blocks produced?
Soil is mixed with water (5–7% moisture) and, for weatherproof blocks, about 8% cement or lime. Then it's pressed at up to 1,900 PSI.
- 300 to 480 blocks an hour per machine
- A Mega Mixer keeps the mix consistent at full speed
- An on-site AECT plant makes 5,000–8,000 blocks a week
Stabilized or pure earth?
Stabilized blocks (about 8% cement or lime) are fully water resistant and cure on pallets before they go on the wall.
Pure-earth blocks cost less and can go on the wall straight from the machine, but they need deep roof overhangs or a plaster finish to stay dry.
We recommend stabilized for most builds. Pure earth works best for interior walls. Compare the two
How do you build with them?
CEBs go up like other masonry: story poles keep walls plumb, and a bond beam ties the top together.
- Stabilized blocks work anywhere, even basements
- Run electrical surface-mounted, in a double wall, or in a cut chase
- Leave blocks exposed, or finish with lime, earthen or clay plaster
What are you building?
Pick one. We'll tell you how many blocks you need, which machine makes them, and the cheapest way to get them.
Make them, rent us, or buy them
Make your own
Machine, soil analysis and on-site training in one kit.
We come to you
Our plant and operator, your dirt. For one big build.
Buy finished blocks
Made on AECT machines, delivered ready to lay.
Stronger, cooler, and made from your land
Fire and storm proof
Solid earth doesn't burn, rot, or blow away.
Lower bills for life
Thick earth walls stay cool in summer and warm in winter.
Made from local soil
About 70% of the world's soil makes good blocks.
Questions we hear every day
Will my dirt work?
Probably. You need some clay (about 15–35%) and no topsoil. Dig 12" down and test it. Our Small Block Press makes test blocks at real machine pressure.
How much do CEB walls cost?
Usually under $20 per square foot of home, installed. Walls are only about 15% of a home's total cost. Get your exact numbers →
Which machine do I need?
Your block size decides it. The planner picks the right one for you, or browse all machines.
Stabilized or un-stabilized blocks?
If the wall will see rain, choose stabilized (about 8% cement). Pure-earth blocks are cheaper but need a roof overhang or plaster to stay dry.
"It's hard to argue with a building material that's natural, fireproof, tornado proof, durable, and overwhelmingly beautiful."Ryan RungePresident, AECT · Built his own CEB home · Trains every customer on site
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